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Areas of Support

Fear & Panic

Science-based psychological services for men in Guelph and across Ontario. We offer support for anxiety and panic disorders, IBS, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.

Fear & Panic

Areas of Support

It’s time. Learn methods to cope with fear, overwhelm, and anxious feelings.
Gain back your control.

What Are Anxiety and Panic Disorders?

Characterized by persistent and overwhelming feelings of fear and worry, Anxiety disorders cause excessive worry about various aspects of life, while panic disorders involve sudden, intense episodes of fear or discomfort, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat, dizziness, or shortness of breath.

Impact

Ongoing anxiety and panic attacks can contribute to chronic stress, which negatively impacts daily functioning. Men with panic disorders or generalized anxiety may begin to avoid certain situations, which can lead to isolation and diminished quality of life.

Anxiety and panic attacks can also lead to muscle tension, headaches, and digestive problems, further compounding mental health issues. We offer formal assessments for anxiety and panic disorders.

What is IBS?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal condition that causes symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. While IBS is primarily a physical condition, it is often closely linked to stress, anxiety, and emotional distress.

Impact

IBS symptoms can be exacerbated by stress, leading to a vicious cycle where physical discomfort increases anxiety, which, in turn, worsens the symptoms.

The unpredictability of IBS symptoms can cause embarrassment or avoidance of social situations, leading to isolation and increased anxiety. Living with IBS can  create chronic stress and frustration, which can negatively impact overall mental health.

What is OCD?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety. 

Compulsions are often irrational and can interfere with daily life and functioning.

Impact

The constant cycle of intrusive thoughts and compulsive actions can cause significant emotional distress and frustration. Compulsive behaviors can take up large amounts of time, leading to difficulties at work, in relationships, and in other aspects of life.

For many men, OCD may cause embarrassment or shame about certain behaviors, leading to social withdrawal and a sense of isolation. We offer formal assessments for OCD.

Fear & Panic

Treatment Approaches

At Cogent, our team is trained in a variety of approaches for performance enhancement.

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
  • Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
  • Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
  • Supportive Counselling
  • Interpersonal Therapy
  • Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
  • Inference-Based CBT (I-CBT)
  • Communication Skills Training
  • Exposure Therapy
  • Systematic Desensitization
  • Gut-focused Hypnotherapy
  • Virtual Reality Based Exposure Therapy
  • Motivational Interviewing
  • Positive Psychology
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Ready to take the next Step?

We help men navigate the complexities of their mental health through clinical psychology and evidence-based psychotherapy, providing them the guidance they need to see real, tangible improvements in their lives.

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